Gartner Research

Q&A on Cisco's TrustSec

Published: 18 January 2008

ID: G00154671

Analyst(s):
Lawrence Orans
,
John Pescatore

Summary

TrustSec enables enterprises to build identity-aware networks, albeit via an all-Cisco approach. Alternative identity-aware solutions are available for enterprises that seek more choices for their LAN infrastructures.

Table Of Contents

Because TrustSec incorporates technology based on an IEEE standard, does this mean that TrustSec is an open architecture?

Will I need to purchase new Cisco switches to implement TrustSec?

What are the benefits of using 802.1AE-capable switches at the access layer?

Because TrustSec role tags are based on a LAN standard (802.1AE), will TrustSec work over a WAN?

What about my non-Cisco switches — do they become obsolete in a TrustSec environment?

How does TrustSec relate to Cisco’s Network Admission Control (CNAC) initiative?

I am interested in adding identity awareness to some or all of my network. But, I am not ready to upgrade my switches — I need to preserve my current network infrastructure. What alternatives to TrustSec are available to me?